BABOON FLATS 24X30 1994

Zimbabwe 1994 had a brief period of peace and optimism rubbing elbows with her neighbor, South Africa. At sunrise, the hunters, and trackers would go off and I would go the opposite direction. I
hiked to this watering hole to paint and watch wildlife. The granite outcropping in the upper right slowly became a metropolis of baboon inhabitants. Warthogs, fish eagles, and toucan
looking birds came to this watering hole. I kept my eyes on the baboons. They crept nearer as the day progressed. These are massive, intelligent animals with prominent canines. Finally, they
thirstily ventured to the waters edge eventually ignoring my presence. In a flash, they grabbed babies and disappeared into the rocks. A half hour later I faintly heard the sound of a jeeps
motor. It was men with guns. Smart beings knew I wasn't a threat and the men in jeeps were.

Working near the entrance of the Austin Children's Museum was a thing of pure joy. The kids wonder and excitement made me think of my own formative art experiences. Childhood is a time
of realizing the power and magic of art. I was blessed by parents that encouraged my talents. How they found the time to recognize and support me, with seven other kids, has always left me
grateful. This encouragement was reenforced by educators in elementary, jr. high, and high school. To this day I cannot type because Ms. Gerund (god bless her), at Johnston Junior High petitioned
to allow me two semesters of freshman art. My birthdays were always filled with art supplies and books. I wanted to be an artist at an easel. That is what I saw in those kids eyes....mini me.